The France international started his English adventure in 1999 on a half-season loan from French side Metz to Newcastle, where he played with England No.9 Shearer.

"He was a phenomenon," Saha recalled. "Nearly 300 goals in the Premier League, a symbolic player.

"He had an aura about him, a determination and an incredible confidence. He made me understand football - it is above all about instinct. He was always in the right place and would shoot from wherever he was. And he trusted his instinct."